Here in Southeastern Massachusetts, we have the luck to experience two types of shorelines, freshwater and saltwater. Each presents a unique set of properties and needs that require native plants well suited for the area. Seashores require the most hardy, salt and sun tolerant plants which have extensive root systems that can knit fragile sand dunes together. Lake and river shores require plants that are adaptable to changing conditions, sometimes rapid currents, varying water levels, and difficult soil types. Many of these plants support sensitive wildlife that call these shorelines home.

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Species marked with an asterisk* also tolerate intertidal zones (the area between low tide and high tide). Species marked with ** are great for freshwater shorelines.